For the Record: Mr. Trump, we have questions about … hey look, it’s Kanye!
We won’t get to hear President-elect Donald Trump’s plans for his business empire until January, and he’s facing stiff opposition — even within his own party — toward his pick for secretary of State. But you know who paid a visit to Trump Tower on Tuesday morning? It was …
Wait, hang on. We almost got distracted by yet another goofy fluff news item. MUST. STAY. FOCUSED.
I’mma let you finish … let’s table this plan announcement for now
Key portions of Donald Trump’s finances were kept under wraps during both the primary and general elections; for example, we’re still waiting to see his federal tax returns, something we’ve seen from every presidential candidate since Nixon. Does Donald’s vast business empire create any conflicts of interest that could pit his own interests against the country’s interests? Do his debts make him vulnerable to outside pressure? Might be good to know at some point, perhaps before he starts signing bills into law or negotiating treaties or whatever.
On Thursday, we were supposed to hear his plan to separate his private holdings from his public duties. But it looks like we’ll have to wait until at least next month. “With so many iconic properties and successful entities, moving the announcement to January, ensures the legal team has ample time to ensure the proper protocols are put in place so his sole focus will remain on the country and achieving his ambitious agenda with the help of the world-class cabinet he has built,” transition spokesman Sean Spicer said in a statement.
The initial plan was for Trump’s sons to take over the company businesses, with Trump executives in place, but critics said it didn’t create enough separation. Ethics watchdog Meredith McGehee thinks the delay is a good sign: “If he wanted to simply announce that ‘my kids are taking over,’ that doesn’t require a lot of time and effort,” said McGehee, who’s calling on Trump to divest his holdings.
A lot of people are saying — we’re not saying it, but a lot of people are — that Trump has cash-flow issues that prevent him from walking away. The theory would also explain why he’s keeping his job as executive producer of NBC’s “The Apprentice”: because he needs the cash. Can you believe that? Still, some people are saying it. As soon as he releases his federal tax returns, this whole thing will be completely cleared up.
… but the Trump Rally is one of the best rallies of all time! OF ALL TIME!
